Achieving a design from its inception through to its completion has normally manifested through a variety of mixed media/medium. This is due to the countless processes and project parameters that are involved in the creation of architecture. These days the computer, and in the near future "The Cloud," is and will become the common platform in society which contains both positive and negative connotations.
Digital pens come in all forms, shapes and sizes in an attempt to replicate the sleek and timeless design of the ink pen. I must admit that although there are some extremely uncomfortable pens out there, a few have made a breakthrough for me. I was looking for something that best replicates the look, feel and most importantly, the drawing style and rage of the ink pen. Line-weight is extremely important, thus sensitivity to the amount of pressure extorted must be captured and accurately produced.
The standout achiever must be the pen that comes standard with the Samsung Galaxy Note Pro 12.2" Tablet. The design and weight are both quite well resolved but it is the ability to achieve contrasting line weights as well as the immediate response time that elevates this product to the new benchmark of digital pens.
Navigating through a 3D environment can be achieved through a combination of the mouse and keyboard but is often a slow process and requires the user to initiate multiple attempts in order to view a specific portion or element within the virtual model for editing purposes.
The 3D mouse allows the user to fly effortlessly through the model and easily pinpoint specific elements, zoom to the extents of the model, swap between different views without having to access the view cube. The mouse works on the principle of one physically grabbing the model at a point and rotating, panning, zooming and angling it until you achieve the required position.
The mouse is also pressure sensitive and the speed at which each of these tasks are undertaken is completely up to the user and amount of twist or pressure that is applied. Its ergonomic design allows one to rest the arm while manipulating the joystick.
The 3D mouse defiantly improves ones efficiency when working with a B.I.M. or 3D model. The initial use may be daunting to a new user, and possibly be even slower than traditional methods, but with a couple of days practise it can become a game changer.
Personally I have been using the 3Dconnexion SpaceMouse Pro for a couple of months now and can only recommend it to fellow Revit/ArchiCAD users. It is extremely helpful and increases productivity. It integrates with most 3D programs such as Google Sketchup, 3Ds Max, AutoCAD and any .dwf
Track Pad
A similar concept to the 3D mouse is now being incorporated in what we know as the track pad. The Leap motion controller is essentially a trackpad that operates in three dimensions and can track the movement of ones hands in the space around the device, turning gestures into input commands.
The Pen
Ink
The traditional architect of the modern era, 1900-2000, would never leave the comfort of the office without at least one pen in hand. The pen defines the architect, it becomes the tool to used to formulate ideas and create, the dialogue between architect and client, a measuring device, it poses questions and formulates answers. Architects of all generations will tell you that the pen is a priceless tool that can't be replaced or negated... Is this the case?
Digital Pen
The digital version of the pen has begun to make an appearance in architecture of late. It is a paperless system that can benefit the sustainability issue that comes with the mass amount of paper that architectural firms use, provided that the power source for charging this device comes from renewable energy.Digital pens come in all forms, shapes and sizes in an attempt to replicate the sleek and timeless design of the ink pen. I must admit that although there are some extremely uncomfortable pens out there, a few have made a breakthrough for me. I was looking for something that best replicates the look, feel and most importantly, the drawing style and rage of the ink pen. Line-weight is extremely important, thus sensitivity to the amount of pressure extorted must be captured and accurately produced.
The standout achiever must be the pen that comes standard with the Samsung Galaxy Note Pro 12.2" Tablet. The design and weight are both quite well resolved but it is the ability to achieve contrasting line weights as well as the immediate response time that elevates this product to the new benchmark of digital pens.
The mouse
3D MouseNavigating through a 3D environment can be achieved through a combination of the mouse and keyboard but is often a slow process and requires the user to initiate multiple attempts in order to view a specific portion or element within the virtual model for editing purposes.
The 3D mouse allows the user to fly effortlessly through the model and easily pinpoint specific elements, zoom to the extents of the model, swap between different views without having to access the view cube. The mouse works on the principle of one physically grabbing the model at a point and rotating, panning, zooming and angling it until you achieve the required position.
The mouse is also pressure sensitive and the speed at which each of these tasks are undertaken is completely up to the user and amount of twist or pressure that is applied. Its ergonomic design allows one to rest the arm while manipulating the joystick.
The 3D mouse defiantly improves ones efficiency when working with a B.I.M. or 3D model. The initial use may be daunting to a new user, and possibly be even slower than traditional methods, but with a couple of days practise it can become a game changer.
Track Pad
A similar concept to the 3D mouse is now being incorporated in what we know as the track pad. The Leap motion controller is essentially a trackpad that operates in three dimensions and can track the movement of ones hands in the space around the device, turning gestures into input commands.
The Leap motion controller doesn’t replace your keyboard, mouse, stylus, or trackpad. It works with them, and without special adapters. With the Leap Motion software running, just plug it into the USB on your Mac or PC, and you’re off.
I have not personally tried this product yet, but from what I have seen and researched it could be even more useful than the 3D Mouse. Even some new laptops are coming out with this feature built-in to alleviate carrying extra devices when travelling.
The overall consensus is still divided. The advantage and speed of the traditional sketch is widely considered irreplaceable, but the younger generations are moving away from the pen and paper.
I have not personally tried this product yet, but from what I have seen and researched it could be even more useful than the 3D Mouse. Even some new laptops are coming out with this feature built-in to alleviate carrying extra devices when travelling.
Verdict
The overall consensus is still divided. The advantage and speed of the traditional sketch is widely considered irreplaceable, but the younger generations are moving away from the pen and paper.
More upcoming designers and future architects are utilising the power of the digital tools as early as their first year of Architectural study. While this increases thier proficientcy, do they miss out on the fundumentals of the architectural profession?
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